This exhibit is FREE to the public and will be on display during library hours Monday--Friday 9 am-6 pm, starting Friday, June 20, 2025, through Friday, July 11, 2025.
Cary Smith's "Let's Play!"
ARTIST STATEMENT
This series of paintings is an exploration of broken lines, kinetic shapes, contrast, and negative space. I created it purely for the joy of creative expression—the ideas, the colors, the movement, and the challenge.
As an antidote to perfectionism and pressure, I set out to break every rule of watercolor painting I’ve ever been taught. I used dry brushes, scraped paint from the paper, and let pencil lines remain visible. Each painting was a playful experiment, and my hope is that this show brings viewers that same sense of joy.
And what better subject to express joy than children at play? Through these pieces, I’ve tried to capture the spontaneity, wonder, and energy of those fleeting moments. I hope viewers can see themselves in these scenes and feel a bit of that playful spirit.
To deepen the experience, several paintings are paired with sound—capturing the lively, authentic atmosphere of children at play. Simply scan the QR code next to each piece, and let the sound immerse you in the moment. I invite you to narrow your gaze, tune in, and step into the scene.
ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
Cary Smith is a figurative watercolor artist and a signature, award-winning member of the Mid-Southern Watercolorists. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, a background that deeply informs her artistic approach. Drawing from her design education, Smith blends illustration, color theory, and line work with digital tools to shape her unique visual language.
Her work reflects a thoughtful balance of traditional technique and modern creativity.
A series of Smith’s paintings honoring female WWII pilots is currently displayed at the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) Museum in Texas. A second series was inducted into the Air Force Art Program at the Pentagon.
For more information, check out Cary's socials.
https://www.instagram.com/carysmithcreative/
https://www.instagram.com/cary.a.smith/
This is the secondary branch of the William F. Laman Public Library located in the heart of the Argenta Arts District of North Little Rock.
